The impact of cancer treatments on fertility is not predictable in many cases, which is why doctors communicate in risk percentages. However, there are known variables with each type of medicine or procedure. Therefore, it is also possible to mitigate some negative effects in specific cases.
The eggs, ovaries, womb, cervix, and hormone production all risk damage or changes during cancer treatments. Depending on the type of cancer and treatment, some patients may also find sexual intimacy difficult or impossible.
If you plan on having children after cancer treatment, you may have some tough choices to face. Delaying treatment comes with its own risks, which is why many women choose alternative solutions from fertility specialists.
Chemotherapy
Risks from chemotherapy include reducing available eggs, both in the ovaries and during each release. Factors in this include the age of the patient and the required drug dose. For this reason, older women are more likely to experience infertility resulting from chemo.
Radiotherapy
Radiotherapy can damage the ovaries, eggs, womb, and pituitary gland. Treatments that focus on the pelvis area and brain pose risks to fertility. Total body irradiation (TBI) and radioactive iodine are also procedures that could impact your ability to get pregnant.
Surgery
If you need to have surgery on any part of the womb, ovaries, cervix or pituitary gland, your chances of getting pregnant are reduced. As a result, some women may conceive but not be able to carry a pregnancy to term. These are issues that you should discuss with your oncologist if you are planning on starting a family.
Cancer & Fertility Treatments
At Neway Fertility, we are passionate about helping women combat the impact of cancer treatments on future family plans. Options at our New York Clinic include the freezing of eggs, ovarian tissues, and embryos. We understand this is a difficult time for you, so you can schedule an initial consultation to begin to understand your options.
Call our offices today if you have received a cancer diagnosis or are already receiving treatment. Neway Fertility offers solutions to both women and men in a caring and compassionate environment.
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